Summer cinemas, a part of the country’s culture, represent one of the most beautiful, retro and touching experiences that have managed to survive in the fast-moving Greek capital. In more recent times, open-air cinemas have also developed into tourist attractions.
Athens offers a range of summer cinema choices, in the city centre, north and south, including truly special spots, some of these modern, sophisticated proposals, and others maintaining yesteryear charm. We have compiled a Top 10 list for you.
01
Cine Paris
Originally established in Plaka in 1920 by a Greek hairdresser inspired by Paris, Cine Paris is now situated on Kidathineon Street in Athens. This charming cinema is renowned for its rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking views of the Acropolis.
The ambiance at Cine Paris blends nostalgic charm with a contemporary touch, creating a cozy and inviting space. The cinema features a wide selection of films, ranging from Greek classics to modern international releases. The bar offers a great variety of whiskeys and warm cheese pies. Adjacent to the ticket booth, you’ll find a shop selling retro film posters and unique memorabilia, adding to the cinema’s distinct appeal.
Kydathinaion 22, Plaka
02
Cine Thisio
Below the Acropolis and just 10′ from the Odeon of Herodes Atticus’ front steps, by Apostolou Pavlou pedestrianized street, which runs to the side of the Acropolis, this is definitely one of Athens’ most visitable summer cinemas. It’s not by chance that CNN named it the “world’s best movie theatre”.
The back seats at Cine Thisio offer a breathtaking view of the lit-up Parthenon, while the aroma of the cinema’s rich garden permeates the space. Definitely try the renowned, handmade, buttery cheese pies served in the canteen, and the tart cherry syrup drink (‘vyssinada’).
Make sure to arrive relatively early for a good seat. This cinema’s reputation has inevitably led to long queues forming outside at the height of summer. The cinema screens rereleases of classic films as well as some of the hottest new releases.
Apostolou Pavlou, Thisio
03
Pool Your Cinema
On the seventh floor of the iconic Grand Bretagne hotel at Syntagma, Pool your Cinema is, without a doubt, the city’s most luxurious summer theater. The hotel’s open-air rooftop cinema screens classic films and international hits on its big screen, with seating in front of the glamorous GB Pool. Film nights here include delicious dishes created by executive chef Asterios Koustoudis. Viewers are served a satisfying combination of handmade nachos, pizza, caramelized popcorn and juicy cheeseburgers, accompanied by a drink, in comfortable armchairs at the pool area.
This one-of-a-kind open-air cinema outing is worth experiencing at least once in your lifetime. The lovely, lit-up Lycabettus hill in full direct view behind the screen elevates the experience. Just take note that tickets cost €50 – not your ordinary movie night fare, and that reservations are necessary.
Hotel Grande Bretagne, Syntagma
04
Cine Dexameni
Between Kolonaki square and Lycabettus hill, picturesque Cine Dexameni is a ‘classic’ film-lover’s point in the center of town. Reach the narrow, pedestrianized street outside the cinema by climbing a few steps from Fokilidou St and when you reach the top look behind you to take in a wonderful Acropolis view. The square here has a children’s playground, and a popular cafe where Odysseas Elytis once hung out and where today people queue to sit at on hot summer nights.
Despite being in the heart of Athens, everything here seems bright and open-hearted, representing the best of summer and holidays. Dozens of tourists strolling about exploring the area love Dexameni cinema’s whitewashed steps, which create a Cycladic island feel. If you like a good European or global art film, this is the spot for you, though Hollywood films are regularly screened too.
Platia Dexamenis, Kolonaki
05
Cine Aigli
Within a large courtyard at the landmark Zappeion building, this cinema was renowned as an entertainment venue for Athens’ high society in the early 20th century. The first film projection here took place in 1903, unquestionably making Aigli Zappeiou one of the city’s oldest summer cinemas in town.
The sophisticated ambience at Aigli Zappeiou cinema, not far from Syntagma Square, is just one good reason to choose seeing a film there. Another is its ongoing projections of new releases, from American blockbusters to the best of Europe’s latest films, on its giant-sized screen.
Zappeio Gardens, Syntagma
06
Zefyros
A legendary cinema in the centre of town, Zefyros is a truly traditional spot that has managed to maintain its status as one of Athens’ most delightful open-air cinemas. The cinema is located on highly frequented Troon St in Ano Petralona, amongst dozens of meze eateries and cafes. It is close to the area’s train station.
Secure yourself a good seat and let your feet relax on the white gravel surface. This is an ideal place to enjoy classic films before heading out to the vibrant neighbourhood for a drink or dinner. Zefyros is also one of the city’s most affordable summer cinemas.
Troon 36, Ano Petralona
07
Cine Athinaia
The historic open-air cinema “Athinaia” in Kolonaki is a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and fragrant honeysuckle. Athinaia, located on pedestrian Haritos Street, offers a relaxed, old-fashioned atmosphere.
This top-rated Athenian cinema is renowned for its excellent sound system, comfortable seating, refreshing drinks and comfortable enough seating. It consistently ranks among the top five summer cinemas in Athens, making it a perfect choice for a memorable night out.
Haritos 50, Kolonaki
08
Cine Lila
A truly marvellous cinema in the central Patisia district, Lila has a yesteryear feel. This cinema, featuring a retro entrance with a trademark sign, is one of Athens’ most charming and authentic movie-viewing points.
In a lovely, simple and well-kept space, it definitely rates as an upbeat cultural hotspot, screening select films from around the world, including many films not to be seen elsewhere. Films aside, this cinema is an experience in itself.
Naxou 115, Patisia
09
Riviera
A favorite hangout in the vibrant Exarcheia district, Cine Riviera has a lovely space at a prime position on pedestrianized Valtetsiou St. Its yellow chairs are a trademark feature, as is the curtain you pass through at the entrance to reach the cinema space with its verdant garden.
The cinema screens classic as well as contemporary films from around world and also stages extensive tributes covering the work of celebrated directors.
Valtetsiou 46, Exarcheia
10
Ekran
Ekran cinema is a timeless, classic urban movie theater that creates a sense of nostalgia in older movie-goers for the sweetness and innocence of bygone summer days.
A small summer cinema, it exudes a romantic charm that perfectly suits the mainly older-era films that it screens, making it a feel-good intellectual spot in the heart of Athens. Plants that exude a pleasant aroma line the sides.
Zonara & Agathiou, Neapoli
